Outrage in NI rural community after council forces popular coffee hut to close

Thousands have signed a petition in support of The Lane Coffe Hut which has been given 60 days to close

There has been widespread outrage in a Co Down rural community after a popular coffee hut has been forced to close down by the council.

The Lane Coffee Hut, Kircubbin Road, Ballywalter, has been told that it has 60 days to close following a Planning Commission Appeal after Ards and North Down Borough Council and a neighbour objected to their business.

The Lane was opened in 2021 by Jess and Marcus Green at their property and has since grown into a popular community hub that has been noted for its customer service and being dog friendly. Following the news that it would have to close there has been an outpouring of anger among their customers and the local community, with thousands signing a petition calling for it to be saved.

READ MORE: NI dog community rallies behind at risk park threatened with closureREAD MORE: Co Armagh dog park’s fight for survival after planning dispute

Speaking to Belfast Live, Jess said that they were made aware of a complaint against them by the council in 2022, however they were given no information about what they were claiming the council told them it couldn’t do that due to GDPR. She says that they were not even aware of who made the complaints until the appeal hearing in May of this and the council made no effort to work with her to resolve any issues over the past three years.

Some of the issues raised by the council were that the coffee hut was not in keeping with the rural setting it was in, could impact road safety and cause flooding. There were also issues raised regarding the venue hosting a number of community events such as a family fun day.

She said she is very disappointed in the decision to close The Lane, saying it has been made based on “outdated policies” and was thankful for the support she and her husband have received over the past few days.

Jess said: “We have tried our best to follow the processes and keep The Lane open, but everything we have suggested has been completely rejected by the Planning Commission and we have been given 60 days to close. This decision has been made entirely based on outdated policies and we have had to fight against a council that does not seem to want small businesses or rural communities to succeed.

“We were so badly dismissed during the whole process our names have been left off the list of those who attended the appeal hearing.

“This is our livelihood that is being taken away but it is not only that but The Lane is being taken away from our customers and the people who travel many miles to be here. From the cyclists who stop in for a quick break, the women’s groups who meet here for a safe space to chat to those who just want to come here for a coffee in a friendly environment, it is being taken away from them too.

“I am thankful for the outpouring for support that we have received since we shared the news of what has happened and we can see that it has caused a lot of upset. We are looking at what we can do next and hopefully there can still be something done to help save The Lane.”

A petition has been set up calling on Ards and North Down Borough Council to reconsider its objections to The Lane by Charlene Service which has received over 3,500 signatures in less than 24 hours.

It says: “The Lane Coffee Hut is more than just a place to grab a coffee – it’s a lifeline for our community. For many, it’s a daily meeting point, a safe and welcoming space where friendships are made, support is found, and local people feel connected. Small businesses like this are the heart of our towns and villages, and losing them has a huge impact on everyone who depends on them.

“If The Lane Coffee Hut is forced to close, it won’t just be the loss of a coffee stop – it will take away a vital community hub that brings people together, combats isolation, and supports local life. They welcome tourist to the local area and they use this as a stop to refuel after a day at the beach or half way through their 100 mile cycle! Everyone is made to feel welcome that comes across the door including your furry friends!

“We urge the council to reconsider this closure and recognise the positive difference The Lane Coffee Hut makes every single day. By signing this petition, you are standing up for local businesses, community spirit, and the people who rely on this important space.

“Supporting The Lane Coffee Hut isn’t just about grabbing a drink — it’s about keeping this local gem alive, one that brings so many of us together. It’s about showing love to the people who pour their heart into every cup.

“Together, let’s keep The Lane Coffee Hut open – for today, tomorrow, and the future of our community.”

If you would like to sign the petition you can do so via this link.

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